Tactics for When Your Opponent is in Control of the Point

• When you are attacked strongly, use a block as your return of choice. Aim for placement rather than power (into the playing elbow, and wide of his power zones), and as you get used to your opponent's strokes you can try for more speed on the block. As a beginner, you probably don't have the timing or technique to consistently counterattack a powerful attack. Use your strengths instead, and a simple block return with good placement will force your opponent to work harder.

• The idea is to make your opponent earn every point - at beginner to intermediate levels your opponent is usually only good for around 2 attacks in a row, especially if you can force him to move his feet to reach the ball. If you can consistently make your opponent hit 3-4 attacks on the move to win the point, you will find that you will win many of these points through your opponent's mistakes.

• By being steady with your block, your opponent will miss several attacks, and at other times a well placed block will force your opponent to stop attacking altogether. When that happens it is time to begin your own counterattack to regain control of the point.

• When you have forced a weaker attack from your opponent, use a counterhit to return the ball with more power to the areas I have recommended, and try to start your own attack sequence. You are attempting to halt your opponent's attack and regain the initiative.

• After watching advanced players, you may be tempted to return your opponent's attacks by using a heavy topspin loop counterattack. This type of return requires excellent timing and control and is best left for advanced players with sound technique. Trying to use this stroke without the training to back it up is a sure recipe for handing plenty of cheap points to your opponent. For every crowd pleasing counter loop you hit, you'll miss five.

Next: What to do when the point is even